Stithians Agricultural Show

July 06th, 2018

The biggest day-long agricultural show in Cornwall, Stithians Show is back again for more family fun on the 16th July. Running every year since the early 1800s, this display of agricultural greatness celebrates all the local area has to offer, from animals to crafts!

 

The Showground at Stithians is near Truro and is accompanied by a fairground and numerous marquees for the big day. The main event is, of course, the animal show, where the finest livestock compete for best in show. While horses take the forefront, with around sixty classes, there are also awards on offer for many animals, from goats to guinea pigs! Dog shows and displays of dog agility will also be running throughout the day. Kids will be kept entertained by the small animal section, with plenty of cute rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens to watch and enjoy.

 

sweet peas

Another major aspect of the show is the horticulture section, which has over 250 classes to compete in, with prizes up for grabs for best veggies or the most beautiful blooms. One of the best exhibits is the Sweet Pea Competition, which also acts as the South West Championship. Also popular are the Floral Art competitions, with some phenomenal displays on show each year.

 

Stithians Show really encourages children to take part as well, with the Sunflower Trail providing plenty of opportunities to get involved. Going on an adventure around the showground, kids can look out for wooden sunflowers where they will find a stamp to collect, as well as a whole range of exciting activities. Here, children can get hands-on with many aspects of agricultural life, such as milling flour, learning knots, weaving wool and getting up close with some rare breeds!

 

Food also plays a big part in the Stithians show, with many wagons, stalls and marquees serving up the best Cornwall has to offer! A vast array of food wagons are dotted around the showground for quick bites, such as hot dogs, doughnuts and burgers. There are also a number of wagons and stalls set up to cater to a wide variety of dietary requirements, such as the vegan food wagon. This year, a new Farmers’ Kitchen marquee is being opened to serve full English breakfasts in the morning, a buffet for lunch, and afternoon teas after 3pm! However, the star of the food show is definitely the Taste of Cornwall Marquee, where local businesses showcase their foodie treats, with cheese, jam and cider all produced in Cornwall on offer.

 

 

blacksmith

Another popular exhibit is the Countryside Area, where craftspeople demonstrate their skills. Come and watch the blacksmiths working, or see demonstrations from thatchers, stonemasons and beekeepers, among many others. If that’s not enough, the exhibition ring will also see displays of hawking, fly fishing and a sheep parade!

 

It’s not just about the agriculture though, as there will be musical performances taking place throughout the day. The Show is kick-started by an impressive display from the St Stythians Band, who will march in procession for the opening ceremony, and will provide further performances during the day. The main stage will have bands, choirs and solo acts from Cornwall keeping the crowds entertained all day long, with a separate pop-up festival providing a more relaxed venue to sit and listen to music with a bite to eat. In the evening, the St Stythians Band and the Holman-Climax Male Voice Choir will take to the stage.

 

The Valley is only a 12-minute drive away from the Stithians Showground, so if you are thinking of paying a visit, come and stay at our luxury Cornish cottages to see all that Cornwall has to offer!